ROSSINI: L'Italiana in Algeri

Larmore, Takova, Polverelli; Giménez, Del Carlo, Corbelli, Chausson; Grand Théââtre Chorus (Geneva), Lausanne Chamber Orchestra, López-Cobos. Libretto & translation. Erato 0630-17130 (2)

Erato's new Italiana presents the opera complete, retaining all the dialogues more or less sensibly abbreviated in previous recordings. Jennifer Larmore, the Italian lady of the title, is an absolute delight -- luscious in tone, playful and temperamental in persona. Eschewing the formidably commanding style of Marilyn Horne, she remains an irresistible charmer even in her more forceful moments. There is a special joy in hearing her meaningfully colored recitatives, and of course her fioriture are virtuosic. Raúl Giménez, her equally outstanding romantic partner, starts Lindoro's opening aria, "Languir per una bella," with a melting mezza-voce and never strays from elegance and high polish. Deservedly, he is rewarded in the album's appendix with an optional virtuoso aria.

American bass-baritone John Del Carlo, somewhat lighter in timbre than previous recorded Mustafas (Ramey, Raimondi), nevertheless rises to the role's challenges in terms of character projection and vocal agility. Alessandro Corbelli's tone often loses focus, but he captures the awkwardness of the aging Taddeo with a good comic sense. The Elvira of Darina Takova shines in the ensembles, and the Haly of Carlos Chausson is fine. Conductor Jesús López-Cobos maintains a lightness of touch, with smooth and sparkling ensemble work, though the hilarious Act I finale sounds a trifle rushed. This opera has been lavishly served on records; the competition is keen, but Larmore and Giménez are mighty assets here.

- GEORGE JELLINEK